Chief Ambassador Zainab Mohammed, an eminent peace ambassador, has emphasized that women play a crucial role in gathering grassroots intelligence and curbing crime across communities.
Mohammed made this submission in her keynote address at the 3rd Observance of the International Day of Police Cooperation held on Monday in Abuja, with the theme: “Enhancing International Police Cooperation for a Safer World.”
She called on the Nigeria Police Force to harness grassroots intelligence, particularly through women’s participation, and to advance gender reforms that would position Nigeria on the global security map.
According to her, Nigeria’s security challenges — terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and farmer-herder clashes — demonstrate that crime transcends state boundaries.
“They spill over; they connect; and they demand cooperation at every level, local, national, and international. But beyond treaties and global frameworks, true cooperation must begin from the ground up, in our villages, in our mosques and churches, in our markets and schools,” she stated.
Highlighting the indispensable role of women in security, Mohammed noted that women are often the first to notice unusual changes in their communities.
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“Whether it is a boy suddenly keeping strange company, a new face appearing in the village, or a neighbour in silent distress, women are often the first to sense unusual changes. Building on such grassroots intelligence can prevent crimes before they escalate into national or international threats,” she said.
Citing Borno State, she explained how women’s participation in security dialogues enabled early detection of risks and quicker resolution of tensions.
On a global scale, she added that studies have shown female officers use less force, attract fewer misconduct complaints, and foster deeper trust with citizens.
Mohammed further praised Nigeria’s progress in gender inclusion, noting the rise of women within the police force to senior ranks, including deputy inspector generals, commissioners of police, and the first female force secretary. She commended the unveiling of the Police Gender Policy in 2024, which has expanded career opportunities for women.
Mohammed also raised concerns over the condition of women’s detention cells in Nigeria, describing them as unfit for a nation that prides itself on dignity and justice.
“Too many of our sisters are kept in overcrowded, unhygienic spaces, without access to sanitary care, privacy, or medical attention. The Police Act of 2020 already provides the framework, but what remains lacking is the political will and leadership to insist that every police cell in Nigeria must meet a standard of dignity,” she stressed.
While applauding the Nigeria Police Force for its achievements, the peace ambassador called on international communities to extend their support to Nigeria in strengthening police cooperation and security reforms.
“Let us build a Nigeria where the police and the people stand side by side; where dignity is never compromised, and where international cooperation delivers peace not just in theory, but in our daily lives,” Mohammed urged.
The event, endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly, was organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates. It brought together dignitaries, security stakeholders, and civil society leaders to deliberate on strengthening global police cooperation in line with the UN General Assembly’s observance.
